IMO, it started last off season. It’s a 4 year plan not a three year. We are now in year 2. Malik Hooker was drafted by Ballard last offseason and he envisions him as a key foundational defensive piece for years to come. So it started right there for me. This isn’t a three year plan...I don’t care how Irsay and Ballard are trying to frame it.

I don’t think Bell’s Instagram activity is indicative of anything more than he has simply taken interest in Luck’s comeback from injury. Many players around the league have relationships with guys from other teams or follow the progress of other players. Heck...when T.Y. went to the Pro Bowl last year, Anthony Brown was all up on him asking him “what is up with your boy Luck?” A player of Luck’s stature will generate interest from around the league because they know if he is healthy then he can potentially affect the balance of power in the AFC.

I’m not writing the kid off yet but when you keep using mid round picks to find RBs then chances are good you get your fair share of disappointments. You get what you pay for most of the time. That said...I’m still holding out hope for him. I really want him to succeed here.